The elution of poly (vinyl alcohol) from a contact lens: the realization of a time release moisturizing agent/artificial tear.

The use of a contact lens as a polymeric delivery vehicle is presented. Specifically, the elution of nonfunctionalized poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) from nelfilcon A hydrogel lenses is presented as a model of delivering polymeric active agents to the eye. High molecular weight nonfunctionalized PVA is added to the lens matrix for later release into the tears.